Which educational philosophy supports the idea that experience in life is key to learning?

Pragmatism is the educational philosophy that emphasizes the importance of experience in the learning process. This philosophy posits that knowledge is not a static entity but is instead constructed through interaction with the environment and through practical experiences. Pragmatists believe that learners gain understanding and insights by engaging with real-world situations, solving problems, and reflecting on their experiences. In this framework, education is seen as a dynamic process that must adapt to the needs and contexts of learners, fostering critical thinking and inquiry.

Naturalism focuses more on the inherent qualities of nature and the natural world, emphasizing the role of the environment in shaping experiences, but it doesn't solely prioritize experience as the key to learning. Idealism emphasizes the importance of ideas and ideals, often focusing on the pursuit of truth through intellectual exploration, rather than experiential learning. Progressivism also values experience, but it is more specifically oriented towards social reform and democratic ideals, aiming to prepare students for participation in a democratic society. While these other philosophies acknowledge the significance of experience, it is pragmatism that centers the concept as fundamental to the learning process.